Probation and Parole Officer Career in Arkansas

The Arkansas parole and probation system is combined under the jurisdiction of the Board of Correction and Community Punishment, headquartered in the capitol city of Little Rock. Besides a main office in Little Rock, there are district parole and probation offices in the cities of Cabot, El Dorado, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff and Texarkana.

Duties of Probation and Parole Officers in Arkansas

Probation officers monitor offenders who have been sentenced to probation rather than incarceration in order to assure that they meet the conditions of their probation. Probation officers meet regularly with probationers and parolees, both in the probation office and the offender’s home. Probation and parole officers must be skilled at interviewers; they provide employment assistance and refer clients to rehabilitative and other services. The overwhelming majority of probation officers in Arkansas serve either adults or juveniles, not both, except for a very few officers who work in remote rural areas.

Qualifications and Requirements for Becoming a Probation and Parole Officer in Arkansas

Bachelor’s degree or better, preferably in criminal justice, counseling, psychology, social work, sociology or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred for supervisory positions.

Good listening skills

Excellent oral and written communication

Computer proficiency

Proof of registration, or exemption from, selective service

No felony convictions

An understanding of human psychology

Compassionate

Paid or volunteer experience in probation, corrections or social work is an asset.

Individuals whose applications are accepted will be required to complete the following:

Oral interview

Drug testing

Fingerprinting

Background investigation

Medical examination

Psychological evaluation (some offices)

Training for certification – all new hires must complete a four-week training offered by the Administrative Office of the Court and pass law enforcement certification requirements within the first year of employment

The average annual salary of an adult probation officer in Arkansas is $45,910.00.

How to Apply for a Parole and Probation Officer Job in Arkansas

A list of openings and application information are available from the Board of Correction & Community Punishment, Two Union National Plaza, 105 W. Capitol, Little Rock, AR 72201; Tel. 501/604-5240.

Arkansas Adult Probation and Parole Association

The Arkansas Adult Probation and Parole Association (AAPPA) is a non-profit organization formed in 1975 to provide information, leadership and training to its members for the purpose of making the Arkansas criminal justice system more effective and efficient. AAPPA provides quality training, a forum for the exchange of ideas, and a platform for adopting professional standards for adult probation and parole officers.